🗺️ Places We Visit

The Iconic Borderland Summit: Mt. Cristo Rey stands as a sentinel overlooking three states (Texas, New Mexico, Chihuahua) and two countries. At 4,576 feet, this limestone peak offers panoramic views of the El Paso/Juárez metropolitan area.

Trail Description:

The 1.9-mile ascent follows a well-worn, rocky path with steady elevation gain. The trail can be loose in sections, requiring careful foot placement. Most hikers complete the round trip in 2-3 hours.

What to Expect:

• Summit Monument: A 29-foot limestone statue of Christ overlooks the valley
• 360° Views: See downtown El Paso, Juárez, the Franklin Mountains, and New Mexico
• Sunrise/Sunset: Popular times for photography (get there early!)
• Border Context: The trail crosses into New Mexico and approaches the US-Mexico border

Best Time to Visit:

October through April for cooler temperatures. Avoid midday in summer (extreme heat and no shade). Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings are popular with our group.

Getting There:

From I-10, take Exit 2 (Sunland Park Dr). Follow McNutt Rd to the parking area near the Asarco plant. Parking is limited on busy days.

Special Considerations:

• No shade - bring extra water
• Rocky terrain - good boots recommended
• Border Patrol presence common
• Annual pilgrimage in late April draws thousands

El Paso's Highest Challenge: At 7,192 feet, North Franklin Peak is the highest point in the Franklin Mountains and the entire El Paso area. This is a serious undertaking requiring excellent fitness and preparation.

Trail Description:

The Ron Coleman Trail ascends relentlessly for 4.1 miles with 3,000 feet of elevation gain. The grade is steep throughout, with loose scree and exposed scrambling near the summit. Allow 6-8 hours round trip.

What to Expect:

• Relentless Climb: Steady uphill with minimal flat sections
• Exposure: Steep drop-offs and scrambling sections
• Epic Views: See 100+ miles in all directions on clear days
• Summit Register: Sign the logbook at the top

Requirements:

• Advanced fitness level - this is not a beginner trail
• 3+ liters of water per person
• Start before sunrise (especially in warm months)
• Trekking poles highly recommended
• Proper hiking boots (trail runners insufficient)

Best Time to Visit:

November through March. Summer attempts require pre-dawn starts (4-5 AM). Wind can be extreme at the summit year-round.

Getting There:

Tom Mays Park (fee required). Follow signs to Ron Coleman Trailhead. Park fills up on weekends - arrive early.

Family-Friendly Desert Beauty: Lucero Canyon offers an accessible introduction to Franklin Mountains hiking with gentle terrain and impressive canyon walls.

Trail Description:

A 1-mile out-and-back trail follows a sandy wash through a scenic canyon. The path is mostly flat with gradual elevation gain, making it perfect for families and beginners.

Highlights:

• Desert Flora: Ocotillo, creosote, prickly pear, and seasonal wildflowers
• Rock Formations: Impressive canyon walls and balanced rocks
• Wildlife: Roadrunners, lizards, and various bird species
• Accessibility: Suitable for children and dogs (on leash)

Best Time to Visit:

Excellent year-round for morning hikes. Especially beautiful in spring (March-April) when desert blooms. Weekend mornings with the group are popular.

Getting There:

From I-10, take Transmountain Rd (Loop 375) east. Turn right on Woodrow Bean Dr, then immediate left to trailhead. Free parking.

Perfect For:

• First-time hikers
• Families with young children
• Morning or evening walks
• Desert photography

Mars on Earth: Kilbourne Hole is a massive volcanic maar crater formed by explosive eruptions. The otherworldly landscape makes it a favorite for geology enthusiasts and NASA Mars training.

Trail Description:

The hike descends 300 feet into a mile-wide crater, then circles the rim. The terrain is loose volcanic rock and sand. The full loop takes 2-3 hours.

Geological Features:

• Maar Crater: Formed by explosive steam eruptions 80,000 years ago
• Volcanic Rocks: Black basalt, olivine crystals, and peridotite
• Unique Landscape: Used by NASA for Mars rover testing
• Crater Rim: 360° views of Chihuahuan Desert

What to Bring:

• Extra water - no shade anywhere
• Sun protection - extreme UV exposure
• Good boots - volcanic rock is sharp and loose
• Camera - incredibly photogenic

Getting There:

From El Paso, take I-10 west to Exit 0 (NM 9). Follow NM 549 south for ~20 miles. High-clearance vehicle recommended (rough dirt road last 5 miles).

Best Time:

Fall through spring. Avoid summer - exposed terrain with temps exceeding 110°F. Wind can be extreme.

Historic Desert Mine: This abandoned mine in the Juárez mountains offers history, solitude, and panoramic views of the binational region.

Trail Description:

A gradual 1.5-mile climb to an old mining area. The trail is well-defined through desert terrain with scattered ruins. Allow 2 hours round trip.

Historical Interest:

• Mining History: Active from 1920s-1950s
• Ruins: Old mining structures and equipment remains
• Cave Exploration: Small mine shafts (exercise extreme caution)
• Cultural Heritage: Part of Juárez's industrial past

Border Considerations:

• Bring passport/SENTRI for border crossing
• Mexican car insurance required if driving
• Group hikes recommended for safety
• Follow local guidance from experienced members

Best Time:

Evening hikes are popular, especially during full moon. Fall and spring offer comfortable temperatures.

Safety Notes:

Always hike with experienced group members familiar with the area. Do not enter mine shafts without proper equipment. Respect private property boundaries.